Conclusions: What Does the Future Hold for MOOCs?

MOOCs represent the prolongation of the numerous experiments already performed in the areas of distance learning and e‐learning. MOOCs are becoming the most visible aspect of the "Open Educational Resources" (OER) movement, which is expanding and will, like open‐source software, generate business on the side. Indeed, it is possible to imagine that a private tuition service might develop around the best MOOCs. If that MOOC remains free then there can be no doubt that the movement is meritorious and should be encouraged. Lifelong learning is desperately lacking in many countries, as is training for the careers of the future. New generation learning centers or ad hoc centers could have meeting rooms for those pursuing a given MOOC who wish to meet up and talk in person, meet with tutors or other people who have already completed the MOOC, or who have a good knowledge of the subject in question.